Matt Cardle Joins Cast Of Memphis The Musical From 6 July, Beverley Knight Extends Through October

Multi-platinum selling recording artist and songwriter Matt Cardle, who rose to fame winning the seventh series of ITVs The X Factor will join the cast of MEMPHIS THE MUSICAL at London's Shaftesbury Theatre, it is today announced. Cast and company of the award-winning ‘Best Musical’ at the Shaftesbury Theatre are delighted to welcome Matt who will star as radio DJ ‘Huey Calhoun’ from 6 July, taking over from Killian Donnelly who originated the role in the West End.

Matt will join Queen of British Soul, Beverley Knight who extends her run as club singer ‘Felicia Farrell’ in MEMPHIS THE MUSICAL through October 2015.

Matt Cardle says: “I’m thrilled to be making my acting and West End debut in Memphis. From the first time I saw the show I felt I had a real connection with the character of Huey. It’s no secret that I worked for many years before my breakthrough as a musician. I started my first band when I was 12 years old and spent at least 15 years recording albums and sending demos to record companies before finally having my voice heard. It was the united love from family and friends, similar to that at the heart of the Memphis story, that saw me through. I am truly honoured to be sharing the stage with the incredible Beverley Knight, I’ve admired her work for such a long time and can’t wait to get started in the show”.

Beverley Knight says: "I can’t wait to continue my Memphis journey into the autumn with Matt - who will be a fantastic addition to our Memphis family. We all know he has a "fantastical" voice; I think many will be wonderfully surprised by his ability on stage. We are all going to miss Killian when he leaves but his last few weeks will be party time at the show! Bring it all on! Hockadoo!"

Inspired by true events from the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, Memphis The Musical follows the fame and forbidden love of a radio DJ who wants to change the world and a club singer who is ready for her big break.

Olivier and Tony® Award-winning musical, which opened at the Shaftesbury Theatre to huge audience and critical acclaim in October last year, is Directed by Christopher Ashley with Olivier Award-winning Choreography by Sergio Trujillo, Scenic Design by David Gallo, Costume Design by Paul Tazewell, Lighting Design by Howell Binkley, Sound Design by the Olivier Award-winning Gareth Owen and Musical Direction by Tim Sutton.